A telescope is an optical instrument designed to observe distant objects by collecting and magnifying light. It typically consists of a series of lenses or mirrors that focus light to create a clear image. Telescopes are commonly used in astronomy to study celestial bodies such as stars, planets, and galaxies, allowing scientists to gather valuable information about the universe. There are various types of telescopes, including refracting telescopes, which use lenses, and reflecting telescopes, which use mirrors. The invention of the telescope in the early 17th century is attributed to Galileo Galilei, who made significant discoveries that changed our understanding of the cosmos.